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Clayton Mathis

January 22, 1943 ~ May 7, 2016 (age 73) 73 Years Old
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Message from Jeff Cliett - May 08 at 02:33 PM

Mr. Mathis was a truly wonderful person, gifted educator and caring individual. I will always remember and be grateful when he as the principal at Coffee High right after consolidation, went well above and beyond to make myself and other students from Broxton and Nicholls feel welcome to our new school. He always had a special way to motivate, inspire and push us all to do our best. I am grateful for how he approached his role as an educator and administrator.
Message from cornelius - May 16, 2016 at 09:37 AM

Please be encouragedAnd he will swollen up death forever, And the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will wipe away the tears from all facesIsaiah 25:8
Message from Jan Malphus Downing - May 15, 2016 at 07:19 PM

I smiled when my son, Jimmie Downing, told me about meeting Coach Mathis for the first time. Jimmie said he was a Freshman and Mr. Mathis was making a speech and ending his speech he stated that through the years of talking to former students he would ask them one question: If you went back through school again tell me one thing that you would change...and the number one answer was....."I would study more and make better grades"!! Being a Freshman, Jimmie thought this was too funny and this man didn't know what he was talking about!! Need I say more?? Jimmie, without hesitation, now gives the same answer....he wishes that he had studied more and made better grades. He also found out first hand just how caring and compassionate Mr. Mathis was and sings praises about this wonderful educator. Thank you Mr. Clayton Mathis for your advice, help and encouragement you gave to my family and so many others....God Bless...We will miss you....Jan Malphus Downing
Message from Lashon Vaughn - May 13, 2016 at 05:48 AM

Sorry for the family's loss. Mr Mathis was a great principal. He would always talk to you respectfully and encouraging. If you was in his office, he would take time to talk and know you a bit. He knew my mom and aunts well and had me laughing one day in the office on how they didn't play in school. R.I.P. Mr Mathis as you are missed.
Message from Jean Gooden - May 11, 2016 at 06:58 PM

A LOVELY MEMORY.THIS MAN WAS A WONDERFUL LEADER.THE GOODEN FAMILY APPRECIATE ALL THE LOVE ,KNOWLEDGE,AND ENCOURAGEMENT YOU GAVE US.YOU WERE AN ANGEL SENT HEREON EARTH. YOU ARE MISSED.GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY.
Message from Nichelle Ingram - May 11, 2016 at 03:28 PM

Nichelle Ingram lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Tara Pace Floyd - May 11, 2016 at 02:49 PM

Mr Mathis was my principal. When I attended the high school from 82-86 and he always had encouraging words for me and he had the respect from everyone at Coffee High..... You will be missed Principal Mathis
Message from Jeffery raper family - May 11, 2016 at 10:30 AM

A good friend and neighbor for many years. Always gave a helping hand.
Message from Dawn Peterson - May 11, 2016 at 04:51 AM

Dawn Peterson lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Debra Paulk - May 11, 2016 at 03:37 AM

Debra Paulk lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Heidi Evans - May 10, 2016 at 10:28 PM

Heidi Evans lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Joan Rickerson - May 10, 2016 at 09:52 PM

My family and I were deeply saddened to learn of Mr. Mathis' passing. I, myself, was a member of the CCHS staff when Clayton first came to Douglas and joined us there. Though I left the system in 1972, Clayton continued to cross our paths through the lives of our family's children as a teacher, coach, and principal. Years later, my Father (Mr. Ivey) had the pleasure of building the Mathis' home. Until his death, Mr. Ivey cherished the friendship he developed with Clayton Mathis. Just as we miss Mr. Ivey, we will miss Mr. Clayton. He was "a gem of a guy." Our thoughts and our prayers are with his family. May GOD comfort you in your time of loss. Sincerely, Joan Rickerson
Message from Nedra Mathis - May 12, 2016 at 09:31 AM

We loved & respected Mr Ivey and cherish the house he built for us. Thank you Joan, Nedra Mathis
Message from Gail Walker - May 10, 2016 at 08:50 PM

Gail Walker lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Kathy Fletcher - May 10, 2016 at 08:48 PM

All my family loved Clayton! Sympathy to the family.Kathy Fletcher, West Green, Ga
Message from Debbie Stanley - May 10, 2016 at 06:58 PM

Debbie Stanley lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Lee Cook - May 10, 2016 at 05:18 PM

Fond memories of his thoughtful patience with a camellia novice, he cared for not only his friends but all who might one day be in that number!
Message from Will Hurst - May 10, 2016 at 05:12 PM

Mr. Mathis made me and countless others better people. I cannot think of a greater legacy to leave behind. He was a model husband, father and follower of Christ. He knew just when to offer a word of encouragement or a paddle to the rear! I'm a living testimony to that. My prayers are with you Mrs. Mathis and Elizabeth, I know your hearts are broken. Much love, Will Hurst
Message from Katrina & Johnny Brantley - May 10, 2016 at 04:20 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Mr. Mathis touched so many lives and people. He has left a legacy that will be treasured.
Message from Ruth Bussey - May 10, 2016 at 04:10 PM

Nedra I was so shocked and saddened to hear that Mr. Mathis had passed away. He was my first principal and was wonderful at making all of us northern transplants feel right at home. I much appreciated that and will always remember him as a fine principal and person. I always thought it so funny on rainy days at the coffee junior high school that he would don rain gear and stand out in the rain to keep the students on the sidewalk so they would keep dry. Sorry I can't attend the funeral as I am out of town all week. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Ruth Bussey
Message from Jerry Yancey - May 10, 2016 at 02:31 PM

Ms. Nedra,It was a shock when I heard that Mr. Clayton had passed. I worked with him for twenty plus years as an administrator in Coffee County. He was one of the most friendly and compassionate friends that I have ever known. I remember many times with him sharing advice when I asked him. He was a true leader and I saw him as a good role model for me. If there is any thing that my wife or my self can do, please feel free to call on us. Our prayers are certainly with you and your family. Clayton was a great positive influence for the students that he supervised. He also was a tremendous community servant. He will really be missed.God BlessJerry, Yancey and Family
Message from Deanna Smith - May 10, 2016 at 01:56 PM

My profoundest sympathies to the Mathis family. What a giant of a man. A wonderful and much beloved boss, community leader, volunteer, role model, mentor and friend. He cared. I am blessed to have been under his tutelage as a young teacher. Prayers for all those who feel his loss keenly. You will be missed, sir. God bless you and your family. May you rest in peace.
Message from Michael Spivey - May 10, 2016 at 01:41 PM

My favorite principal ever! I managed to get through the Coffee School system with just three paddlings. One in elementary school (Ms Cohen), one in high school (Coach Goss), and one in Jr High (Mr Mathis). We had an out of town ball game later that day and Mr Mathis informed me that he had developed a theory during his years in education that athletes he paddled on the day of a game always seemed to perform better. Had some of their best games ever, he said. 'So consider this a good luck charm'. Not sure how well I played that day but my propensity to show up in Math class 5 minutes after the tardy bell rang was forever cured. Rest in Peace Mr Mathis, you were always a class act! - Michael Spivey
Message from Paulette Brown - May 10, 2016 at 01:26 PM

Paulette Brown lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Yolanda Presley - May 10, 2016 at 01:20 PM

I will always cherish every moment spent with and around him. He would always introduce me add one of his while giving me the biggest hug ever and then he would say, I wish could have had a few more like this one. The last time we saw each other he bragged on me to Hal Presley as well as my kids and that was one of the most greatest moments! You will be greatly missed, family be strong!
Message from Karleen K. Evans - May 10, 2016 at 12:44 PM

Mr Mathis touched many many lives in Coffee County and he will never be forgotten. He was always such a friendly and outgoing person. Hard to believe he is gone from us.
Message from Debi Braddy Bazemore - May 10, 2016 at 12:40 PM

God bless this family! Coach I will truly miss you! You were the best! He will be missed by several people. He touched all I know, because he sure touched me.
Message from Debi Braddy Bazemore - May 10, 2016 at 12:32 PM

Debi Braddy Bazemore sent a virtual gift in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Sylvia Kirkland - May 10, 2016 at 12:11 PM

Such a great man. Such a positive influence on so many youth. What a blessing to this community. There are so few like him these days. I was always amazed how he always remembered everyone's name and face. He will be greatly missed. RIP Mr. Mathis.
Message from Barbara Day - May 10, 2016 at 11:55 AM

I often think of our OM days. I remember when Ambrose won Regional and when he got the spontaneous scores, he said" that's what you call a South Georgia but whooping', He was so proud of his Ambrose kids.Nedra I remember you well and Mr Mathis, coming to the funeral home when we lost Kenny. It touched me deeply. That is the sort of people you both have been. Compassionate and passionate about all that have been blessed to be known to you.
Message from Sheri Mincey - May 10, 2016 at 11:51 AM

He was always smiling and took great care of his students.
Message from Blondale Thomas - May 10, 2016 at 10:08 AM

Blondale Thomas lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Connie Bowers - May 10, 2016 at 10:00 AM

Mr. Clayton will be sadly missed by the Emergency department at CRMC! He was a "friend" to all- he knew everyone-which is so helpful! When folks experience a true emergency it is a relief to see a familiar face! He was a welcome site to our staff on our craziest days, always having the right words to say. He was a true blessing to each of us, I know each staff member has a special memory of something he said or did! As the department director responsible for interviewing job candidates he would "size them up" before I even saw them! He was always spot on- he might say "Ms. Connie you don't want that one- they can't even get here on time", or "you got a good one there-nicely dressed and punctual". Our deepest sympathy to your family- thank you for honoring Mr. Claytons wishes.
Message from Nedra Mathis - May 12, 2016 at 09:49 AM

Dear ER nurses,doctors & staff. You know how he treasured the time he worked in the ER. All of you enhanced his life. Thank you. Nedra Mathis.
Message from Donna Simpson - May 10, 2016 at 09:30 AM

My deepest Sympathy, This Man was more than I can even began to say , My memory of him as so many as My Principal . I'M saden , but God has his Angel home with him now. "TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD" WE WILL miss him. Many prayers for the family and my class of 92" classmate Elizabeth
Message from May 10, 2016 at 09:11 AM

Fiery Lily and Rose was purchased for the family of Clayton Mathis.
Message from Kelly Waldron - May 10, 2016 at 08:39 AM

Kelly Waldron lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Carla Miller - May 10, 2016 at 07:54 AM

Carla Miller lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Tammy Littleton-Clark - May 10, 2016 at 07:49 AM

Tammy Littleton-Clark lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Shirley Quenzer - May 10, 2016 at 07:22 AM

Shirley Quenzer lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from William and Kelly Barrow - May 10, 2016 at 04:38 AM

William And Kelly Barrow lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Joan Rickerson - May 09, 2016 at 09:46 PM

Joan Rickerson lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Kathy & John Darr - May 09, 2016 at 08:59 PM

Kathy & John Darr lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Maggie Crosby - May 09, 2016 at 08:33 PM

Maggie Crosby lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Sarah J Gibeau - May 09, 2016 at 07:29 PM

Sarah J Gibeau lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Sylvia goolsby - May 09, 2016 at 07:03 PM

Sylvia Goolsby lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from louise Paulk - May 09, 2016 at 06:57 PM

Louise Paulk lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from May 09, 2016 at 05:10 PM

Peaceful White Lilies Basket was purchased for the family of Clayton Mathis.
Message from Anita Barnes - May 09, 2016 at 04:37 PM

Clayton was a member of the Coffee Regional Medical Center Auxiliary for several years. He served in the Emergency Room area and was so appreciated by staff, visitors, patients and the members of his Auxiliary family. Words cannot express how much he'll be missed at CRMc.
Message from Kevin Adams - May 09, 2016 at 03:23 PM

After a long absence I noticed that I began to cross paths with Mr. Mathis more often in recent months. We shared a conversation about football and my years at Coffee High in Danny's Pizza one night. My daughter and I began to see him in the mornings at Holt's bakery where he would pick up a news paper. One morning in the parking lot of Holt's he spoke to me about his career as a Principal and how much he enjoyed the particular time period when my class was there. I was most impressed when he called me by name and would recall specific school and football events from my days at Coffee High......25 years ago. I know he will be missed and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.Kevin Adams Class of '91
Message from Marlene King Richards - May 09, 2016 at 03:14 PM

Nedra and famiy,Dianne called me to tell me about Clayton's passing. I am so sad to hear. Even tho we did not ever teach at the same school, I knew him through Dianne and her daughters playing basketball at the old Central gym. I hate to remember how long ago that was!!!My prayers and thoughts are with you.Marlene King Richard
Message from deborah boyd - May 09, 2016 at 02:58 PM

Deborah Boyd lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Jean Ellis - May 09, 2016 at 02:49 PM

So, so sorry. Mr. Clayton will be missed as greatly as he was loved!
Message from Teri Phinazee - May 09, 2016 at 02:29 PM

I will always remember his patience. Such a gracious heart.
Message from April Hutchinson - May 09, 2016 at 02:07 PM

April Hutchinson lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Bill Craig - May 09, 2016 at 02:07 PM

Dear Nedra and Elizabeth:We are exceedingly saddened and shocked by this news. We are praying for you and asking that God will comfort you in your grief and that you will be reminded of His great promises and hope through the Lord Jesus. Bill and Vicky Craig
Message from Desiree Phinazee Womack - May 09, 2016 at 02:02 PM

Mr Mathis was a very kind and interesting person! He will be missed by so many people.
Message from Sue and Tim Harbuck - May 09, 2016 at 01:54 PM

Sue And Tim Harbuck lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Linda Toombs - May 09, 2016 at 01:37 PM

God has truly blessed me through the life of Clayton Mathis. I remember him first as a student and he was the assistant principal. As an adult, our we met again. As an adult he was yet teaching me and I so very much appreciate and love him. I'm praying for his family and all of his extended children because as students we all felt like we were one of his children. May God richly bless the family of Clayton Mathis.
Message from Miriam Holland - May 09, 2016 at 01:15 PM

Miriam Holland lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from Tommy Thomas - May 09, 2016 at 01:07 PM

Cherished my long friendship with my good friend, Mushki. Love you, Nedra.Tommy Thomas
Message from maudine wright - May 09, 2016 at 01:03 PM

Maudine Wright lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
Message from May 09, 2016 at 12:24 PM

Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Clayton Mathis.
Message from Billy Peacock Family - May 09, 2016 at 11:19 AM

Billy Peacock Family lit a candle in memory of Clayton Mathis
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